It’s common knowledge that what you do or do not eat can affect your digestion and overall health. According to Megan Rossi, Ph.D, RD who is known as the Gut Health Doctor everyone should diversify their diet and these nine foods below all help to aid digestion and give the variety you need.
- Oats– a prebiotic food that is inexpensive and easy to add to any dish.
- Sauerkraut– contains probiotics which have been shown to reduce bloating, gas and other digestive symptoms and one analysis showed sauerkraut had up to 28 different strains and can be added to sandwiches or grain bowls.
- Pineapple– contains the digestive enzyme bromelain which is known for breaking down proteins and helps ease the digestive process.
- Chia Seeds– contain a huge source of fiber and they help absorb water in your gut reducing constipation and promote healthy, regular bowel movements.
- Apples– contain a fiber called pectin which has been shown to provide benefits to the lining of the gut.
- Beans– the fiber in beans is fermented by the good bacteria in your gut and allows nutrients to enter your bloodstream and keep toxins out.
- Broccoli– is a cruciferous vegetable like brussel sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower and these are known to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and lower the inflammation of the colon. Don’t overdo these if you don’t want the side effect of too much gas!
- Bananas– contain resistant starch which can improve the gut microbiome and bananas are one of the most versatile fruits available.
- Water– not a food, but everyone knows that hydration plays a key role in digestive health. If you don’t drink enough you could have problems and you can always add fresh fruit, herbs or citrus for an enhanced flavor experience.
Gut health is not just about what you eat, so make sure you get enough sleep and exercise and keep stress to a minimum in addition to keeping the foods above in your diet.
Source:EatingWell